Characteristics and aldehyde concentrations of diamond dust events near Barrow, Alaska ...

• Main Authors: Domine, Florent, Gallet, Jean-Charles, Barret, Manuel, Houdier, Stéphan, Voisin, Didier, Douglas, Thomas A, Blum, Joel D, Beine, Harry J, Anastasio, Cort, Bréon, François-Marie
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: PANGAEA 2011
• Subjects: Snow/ice sample; International Polar Year 2007-2008 IPY; Barrow; International Polar Year; IPY; Alaska
• Online Access: https://dx.doi.org/10.1594/pangaea.809173; https://doi.pangaea.de/10.1594/PANGAEA.809173

Diamond dust (DD) refers to tiny ice crystals that form frequently in the Polar troposphere under clear sky conditions. They provide surfaces for chemical reactions and scatter light. We have measured the specific surface area (SSA) of DD at Barrow in March-April 2009. We have also measured its chemical composition in mineral and organic ions, dissolved organic carbon (DOC), aldehydes, H2O2, and the absorption spectra of water-soluble chromophores. Mercury concentrations were also measured in spring 2006, when conditions were similar. The SSA of DD ranges from 79.9 to 223 m**2/kg . The calculated ice surface area in the atmosphere reaches 11000 (±70%) µm**2/cm**3, much higher than the aerosol surface area. However, the impact of DD on the downwelling and upwelling light fluxes in the UV and visible is negligible. The composition of DD is markedly different from that of snow on the surface. Its concentrations in mineral ions are much lower, and its overall composition is acidic. Its concentrations in ... : Data extracted in the frame of a joint ICSTI/PANGAEA IPY effort, see http://doi.pangaea.de/10.1594/PANGAEA.150150 ...